News Summary
James Edward Bell received a life sentence without parole for the murder of Officer Jackson Winkeler, who was shot during a traffic stop in Florence. The court proceedings revealed graphic details of the crime, including multiple gunshot wounds. Winkeler, a dedicated officer preparing for the police academy, was mourned deeply by his community. The case highlighted the dangers law enforcement faces daily, prompting important discussions around public safety and justice.
Florence, South Carolina – James Edward Bell was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Tuesday for the murder of Officer Jackson Winkeler, who was shot dead during a traffic stop at the Florence Regional Airport. The tragic incident occurred in June 2022 when Winkeler, aged 26, was killed in the line of duty.
The court heard that Winkeler suffered between nine and eleven gunshot wounds, a level of violence described as “the most overkill I’ve ever seen” by Twelfth Circuit Solicitor Ed Clements. Initial legal proceedings saw the State serving a death penalty notice against Bell in May 2023, but this notice was later withdrawn as part of a negotiation that involved Winkeler’s family. They ultimately supported the life sentence which is commonly referred to in South Carolina as a “pine box life,” indicating that Bell will remain incarcerated for the rest of his life.
Prosecutors presented compelling evidence against Bell during the trial. DNA tests linked Winkeler’s blood to the firearm recovered from the scene, confirming that the gun used was the same department-issued weapon lost during the chaotic aftermath of the shooting. Pathological assessments revealed that the weapon had been fired from a distance of less than three feet, suggesting Bell was standing over Winkeler when the fatal shots were executed.
Assistant Twelfth Circuit Solicitor Todd Tucker reported specific details from the evidence that strengthened the case against Bell, which contributed to the decision to reach a negotiated plea. According to legal representatives for Bell, his attorney, Boyd Young, highlighted Bell’s background, noting that he had dropped out of high school in the ninth grade and had a juvenile record.
Throughout the proceedings, Bell admitted to the charges brought against him but showed no remorse or apology for his actions. During the hearing, Winkeler’s father, friends, and fellow law enforcement colleagues were present to witness the proceedings, though they chose not to make any public statements regarding the sentencing.
Officer Jackson Winkeler was well-respected within his community. Before his service as a police officer, he had volunteered as a firefighter in Dillon County and was preparing to enter the police academy, signaling a commitment to public service and safety. His untimely death has had a profound impact on both family and colleagues, sparking an outpouring of grief for a life cut short while serving the public.
After the incident, law enforcement acted quickly in their pursuit of Bell, eventually locating him shortly after Winkeler’s death. His capture involved a series of traffic stops, one of which resulted in locating the firearm connected to the crime. Clements praised the efforts of law enforcement for their swift and effective handling of the case, ultimately leading to the conviction of Bell.
The trial showcased not only the tragic loss of a promising young officer but also raised broader discussions on the dangers faced by law enforcement in the line of duty. With this life sentence, the courts have aimed to deliver a measure of justice for Officer Winkeler and his grieving family.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Life Sentence for Florence Officer’s Murderer
Man Sentenced to Life for Murder of Police Officer
Additional Resources
- WPDE News
- Wikipedia: Jackson Winkeler
- WMBF News
- Google Search: Florence Airport Police Officer Jackson Winkeler
- WBTW News
- Google Scholar: James Edward Bell Florence Officer Murder
- WAFF News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florence South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
